Strategic Union Relations & Bargaining Leader

Suzano International; Pine Bluff (AR); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental & Vision Insurance

401(k) Plan

HSA & HRA

Job summary

Suzano Packaging's Pine Bluff paperboard mill seeks a seasoned Union Manager to lead labor relations and serve as the primary company representative with USW. You will manage the relationship with union leadership, drive collective bargaining, and ensure compliance with applicable laws, enabling smooth operations during growth and integration.

The role requires deep labor relations expertise, strategic thinking, and strong collaboration with plant leadership and CHRO.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations, HR, Business Admin, Law or related field; Master's preferred.
• 10–20 years of progressive labor relations experience in manufacturing/industrial operations.
• Experience with USW or comparable unions preferred.
• Experience supporting M&A integration, plant transformation, or large-scale organizational change is a differentiator.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary liaison with USW representatives at local and district levels.
• Lead collective bargaining negotiations and administer the CBA, including renewals and interpretation.
• Manage the grievance process end-to-end, including investigations and arbitration.
• Ensure compliance with NLRA, FLSA, FMLA, USERRA, OSHA, and Arkansas regulations; coordinate with legal counsel.

Skills

Labor relations strategy

Negotiation & arbitration

Stakeholder communication

Analytical & strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Suzano Packaging's Pine Bluff paperboard mill seeks a seasoned Union Manager to lead labor relations and serve as the primary company representative with USW. You will manage the relationship with union leadership, drive collective bargaining, and ensure compliance with applicable laws, enabling smooth operations during growth and integration.

The role requires deep labor relations expertise, strategic thinking, and strong collaboration with plant leadership and CHRO.